Take The 'A' Train
Dizzy Gillespie & The Mitchell-Ruff Duo Lyrics
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To go to Sugar Hill way up in Harlem
If you miss the "A" train
You`ll find you missed the quickest way to Harlem
Hurry, get on, now it`s coming
Listen to those rails a-thrumming
All aboard, get on the "A" train
Soon you will be on Sugar Hill in Harlem
The lyrics of Dizzy Gillespie & The Mitchell-Ruff Duo's song Take The 'A' Train are a cheerful invitation to take the subway train A in order to reach Sugar Hill, a neighborhood in Harlem famous for its African American cultural identity. The song emphasizes the importance of taking that specific train, since it constitutes the quickest way to get to Harlem. The lyrics suggest a sense of excitement and hurry, as the train is depicted as a thrilling and rhythmic mode of transportation. The lyrics also create a strong association between Harlem and the cultural force of jazz, as the song was a signature tune of Duke Ellington and his orchestra.
The song can be interpreted as an enthusiastic invitation to explore the vibrant and diverse life of Harlem, and to immerse oneself in the cultural richness for which the neighborhood is well known. The phrase "Sugar Hill" refers to the upper class neighborhood in Harlem, where notable personalities such as W. E. B. Du Bois, Walter White, and Lionel Hampton lived. The song encourages listeners to join the train and to experience the vibrant cultural scene of Harlem.
Line by Line Meaning
You must take the "A" train
To reach Sugar Hill in Harlem, the fastest way is to take the "A" train. There is no other way.
To go to Sugar Hill way up in Harlem
The destination is Sugar Hill, a neighbourhood located at a higher elevation in Harlem.
If you miss the "A" train
If you fail to catch the "A" train, the quickest way to Harlem is gone.
You`ll find you missed the quickest way to Harlem
There is no faster or more efficient mode of conveyance than the "A" train to get to Harlem.
Hurry, get on, now it`s coming
The train is approaching, so board it quickly so as not to be left behind.
Listen to those rails a-thrumming
The sound of the train track is loud and rhythmic, indicating the arrival of the train.
All aboard, get on the "A" train
Everyone should hurry up and get on the train, which is identified as the "A" train.
Soon you will be on Sugar Hill in Harlem
Once you have boarded the train, you will soon arrive at your destination, Sugar Hill in Harlem.
Lyrics © BMG Rights Management, Sony/ATV Music Publishing LLC
Written by: BILLY STRAYHORN
Lyrics Licensed & Provided by LyricFind